Product description

A complete reference to the field and an indispensable course supplement Molecular & Cell Biology For Dummies makes this complex topic accessible to everyone, decoding jargon, demystifying theories, and helping students get the most from their coursework. This plain-English guide examines the evolution of the cell and how specialized cells have led to the rise of everything from amoebas to humans. It also examines the current research trends in this exciting field. Invaluable as a molecular or cellular biology course supplement, it helps students review core concepts, prepare for exams, and improve their grades. Rene Fester Kratz, PhD (Everett, WA), is a Biology Instructor at Everett Community College and holds a doctorate in botany from the University of Washington. As a member of the North Cascades and Olympic Science Partnership, she is working to develop science curricula that are in alignment with research on human learning.

Author information

Rene Fester Kratz , PhD, teaches cellular biology and microbiology. She is a member of the North Cascades and Olympic Science Partnership, where she helped create inquiry-based science courses for future teachers. Kratz is also the author of Microbiology The Easy Way .

Table of contents

Introduction. Part I: The World of the Cell. Chapter 1: Exploring the World of the Cell. Chapter 2: Take a Tour Inside the Cell. Chapter 3: Dead or Alive: Viruses. Part II: Molecules: The Stuff of Life. Chapter 4: Better Living through Chemistry. Chapter 5: Carbohydrates: How Sweet They Are. Chapter 6: Proteins: Workers in the Cellular Factory. Chapter 7: DNA and RNA: Instructions for Life. Chapter 8: Lipids: Waterproof and Energy Rich. Part III: The Working Cell. Chapter 9: Hello, Neighbor: How Cells Communicate. Chapter 10: Metabolism: Transferring Energy and Matter. Chapter 11: Cellular Respiration: Every Breath You Take. Chapter 12: Photosynthesis: Makin' Food in the Kitchen of Life. Chapter 13: Splitsville: The Cell Cycle and Cell Division. Part IV: Genetics: From One Generation to the Next. Chapter 14: Meiosis: Getting Ready for Baby. Chapter 15: Mendelian Genetics: Talkin' 'Bout the Generations. Chapter 16: Expect the Unexpected: Non-Mendelian Patterns of Inheritance. Part V: Molecular Genetics: Reading the Book of Life. Chapter 17: DNA Synthesis: Doubling Your Genetic Stuff. Chapter 18: Transcription and Translation: What's in a Gene? Chapter 19: Control of Gene Expression: It's How You Play Your Cards That Counts. Part VI: Tools of Molecular Biology: Harnessing the Power of DNA. Chapter 20: Recombinant DNA Technology: Power Tools at the Cellular Level. Chapter 21: Genomics: The Big Picture. Part VII: The Part of Tens. Chapter 22: Ten Important Rules for Cells to Live By. Chapter 23: Ten Ways to Improve Your Grade. Index.